Dairy milk producers have been fighting a losing battle against categories such as carbonated soft drinks for the better part of a half century, with milk consumption in the US alone dropping over one third since the 1970s. Lately, however, some of the stiffest competition for dairy milk has come from within the milk category itself, with a host of new non-dairy options.

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A novel diagnostic tool, able to simultaneously screen for up to 30,000 different viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites is currently being investigated by researchers at New York's Columbia University. Although its widespread availability requires more work, such a tool could help physicians give a more accurate diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.

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A Thursday morning breakfast meeting with GXS' chairman/CEO Harvey Seegers and marketing director Reid Walker saw both men in a relaxed yet excited mood regarding the company's future following its split from General Electric. Datamonitor's Martin Atherton found out more about the B2B vendor's plans for expansion...

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The FSCP has called for the introduction of a range of straightforward "predictable outcome" products to reverse the loss of consumer trust experienced in the financial services sector. Changes to the advisory model through the introduction of the RDR and consumer demand for transparency and simplicity give strong weight to this proposal.

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There is much discussion focused on omnichannel servicing and the benefits it brings to customer choice and convenience. However, banks can serve customers better by creating a single customer journey that is clearly signposted and simple to fulfil.

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Teva has announced the EU approval of NOMAC/E2, the first monophasic contraceptive with natural estrogen. The perceived increased safety of natural estrogen and a global launch will drive sales of the product, making it a leading hormonal contraceptive brand. To maximize its potential, however, Teva needs to show improved safety over synthetic estrogen contraceptives in post-marketing studies.

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The total amount of deposits and mutual funds held by non-residents in 12 of the largest offshore centers reached a post-crisis high of $14.2tn in 2011. However, this was still below the 2007 peak. Increased pressure on offshore centers to clean up their acts has limited their role as bases for tax avoidance for companies and individuals, to the benefit of safe havens such as the US and the UK.

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Britain's pension system is about to undergo its most radical overhaul of the past 50 years. From April 6, 2006 - 'A-Day' - the current eight sets of pension taxation rules will be replaced by one. It is widely held that the simplified system will be attractive to those with some disposable income or who wish to make retirement provision but were deterred by the complexities of the former system.

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While the internet has altered the landscape in the retail sector and revolutionized the airline industry, pharmaceutical companies have been slow to take advantage of the marketing opportunities offered by the medium. With existing sales and marketing strategies widely considered unsustainable, the industry needs to evolve and engage with its customers online, or it risks being left behind.

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The average Brit is more likely than ever to load their trolley full of premium products. This is reflected by the growth of the specialty products such as hand-made, origin specific food, drink and personal care products. The growing taste for luxury is set to become more pronounced as consumers continue to experiment, self-reward and seek out satisfying experiences.